Matanuska River Group Rafting Trip - Lion's Head Whitewater Rafting

No. This Matanuska River rafting trip is suitable for beginners and experienced rafters alike. Guides provide all necessary instructions before launching.

This trip features Class III and IV rapids, which are considered moderate to challenging. Expect exciting wave trains, fast-moving current, and active paddling throughout the trip.

Yes. This is one of the best introductory whitewater rafting trips in Alaska, offering plenty of excitement while remaining accessible to beginners with basic fitness and swimming ability.

The Lions Head is a large volcanic rock formation in the middle of the Matanuska Valley. The river flows around it before entering a series of exciting rapids, making it a highlight of the trip.

Summer temperatures in this region typically range from 55–70°F, though conditions can change quickly. Dressing in warm layers is recommended.

Yes. Restrooms are available at the rafting check-in location. Once you are suited up in your dry suit, restroom access will not be available until after the trip.

Please plan extra travel time for highway delays. If you arrive late and miss the trip departure, the tour may leave without you. Missed trips are generally considered a no-show and are not refundable.

This trip is not recommended for individuals with serious medical conditions including cardiac, respiratory, or mobility limitations. Participants must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Whitewater rafting, like any outdoor adventure, carries certain risks due to the unpredictable nature of the water and terrain. However, we take safety very seriously. All our trips are led by highly trained and experienced guides who are certified in swiftwater rescue with medical certifications ranging from Wilderness First Responder, Wilderness First Aid, and First Aid-CPR based on role. While the risk of injury is minimal when safety guidelines are followed, it’s important to remember that, as with any adventure activity, there are always some inherent risks. Our goal is to ensure you have an exciting and safe experience on the water. If you have concerns about your safety or any specific health conditions, feel free to speak with our guides or staff before booking your tour.

You will be well-prepared! Our guides will ensure you are informed about safety procedures and best practices during the pre-trip briefing. You’ll learn how to react and what to do in case you fall out of the raft, so you’ll feel confident and ready for the adventure ahead.

River classifications, established by the American Whitewater Association, indicate the technical difficulty and skill level required for navigating the river. These are represented using Roman numerals from I to VI.

For a detailed understanding of river classifications, check out our overview of the Whitewater Rafting Class System.

Yes, we recommend making a reservation to secure your spot on the tour. Space fills up quickly, especially during the peak summer season.

Making a reservation guarantees you can enjoy the adventure you’re looking forward to without any issues. Plus, we have an extremely generous cancellation policy, so if your plans change, you can modify or refund your reservation.

Of course! We love giving back to our community and making adventures more accessible to everyone. We offer several exciting discounts!

• Local Alaskans: If you’re a local, you can enjoy a 10% discount on the individual tour price by showing your State-Issued ID at check-in.
• Military Discount: We’re proud to offer a 10% discount to all active duty and retired military personnel with valid ID.
• Combo Discount: Want to make the most of your time in Alaska? Book any combination of these trips and enjoy a 10% discount on your entire adventure! Our popular Matanuska River Lions Head trip and Matanuska Glacier Tour combo is a fantastic way to experience two incredible activities in one day.

There is no public transportation available, and at this time, we do not provide transportation. The only way to reach our tour check-in areas is by rental car or RV.

We ensure that our professional guides are paid a living wage. That said, our guides work hard, and if you feel inclined to show your appreciation with a tip, they are always grateful for the gesture. It’s not required, but it’s certainly appreciated.

Yes, we advocate for and protect the conservation of Alaska’s natural spaces. We follow a responsible travel ethic and adhere to “Leave No Trace” principles when exploring these incredible places. Since our inception, one of our core values has been showing people how to love, appreciate, and contribute to the preservation of Alaska’s special places.